The 350cc retro motorcycle segment in India is no longer dominated by just one brand. For years, the Classic badge defined this category, but now Honda has entered the battlefield with a serious contender. In this detailed Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Honda CB350 comparison, we break down performance, features, pricing, and buyer suitability to help you make the right choice.
If you are planning to buy a mid capacity retro motorcycle, this Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Honda CB350 guide will clear all your doubts.
Engine and Performance
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 comes equipped with a 349cc single cylinder motor that uses an air and oil cooling system for better temperature management and smoother performance. It produces 20.2 bhp at 6,100 rpm and 27 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Power is delivered through a smooth shifting 5 speed transmission that complements the engine’s relaxed riding character. The newer J platform motor is smoother than older generations and offers relaxed cruising ability.
On the other hand, the Honda CB350 H’ness uses a 348.36cc single cylinder air cooled OHC engine. It delivers 20.8 bhp at 5,500 rpm and 30 Nm of torque at 3,000 rpm. It also comes with a 5 speed gearbox.
On paper, Honda has slightly higher power and noticeably higher torque. More importantly, peak torque arrives earlier, which usually translates into stronger low speed pull and easier city riding. In the Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Honda CB350 performance battle, Honda looks marginally better in numbers, but the Classic still wins hearts with its signature exhaust note and strong road presence.
Dimensions and Weight
With a kerb weight of 195 kg, the Classic 350 carries a solid and planted feel on the road. Seat height stands at 805 mm, and it gets a 13 liter fuel tank. Ground clearance is 170 mm and wheelbase measures 1,390 mm.
The CB350 Hness is lighter at 181 kg. It features a marginally lower seat height of 800 mm, making it more approachable for a wider range of riders. It offers a larger 15 liter fuel tank and 166 mm ground clearance. Wheelbase is longer at 1,441 mm, which improves straight line stability.
In the Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Honda CB350 comparison for practicality, Honda’s lighter weight and bigger fuel tank make it more user friendly for daily commuting and long rides.
ALSO READ: Honda CB350C Special Edition Launched – A Premium Cruiser with Timeless Charm
Suspension and Brakes
The Classic 350 uses 41 mm telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers with 6 step adjustable preload. Braking duties are handled by a 300 mm front disc and a 270 mm rear disc. Dual channel ABS is standard.
The CB350 Hness features telescopic front suspension and twin hydraulic rear shocks. It gets a larger 310 mm front disc and a 240 mm rear disc. Dual channel ABS is also standard here.
While both bikes offer safe and stable braking, Honda’s larger front disc provides slightly stronger bite. In this Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Honda CB350 braking comparison, the difference is not dramatic but noticeable during aggressive riding.
Features and Technology
This is where the gap becomes clearer.
The Classic 350 keeps things simple and traditional. It offers LED headlamp and indicators, adjustable clutch and brake levers, gear position indicator, USB charging port, and dual channel ABS. It focuses more on classic styling than advanced technology.
The CB350 Hness takes a more modern approach. It comes equipped with assist and slipper clutch, traction control system, Emergency Stop Signal, hazard switch, and side stand engine inhibitor. Select variants also offer Bluetooth connectivity and voice control features.
In terms of equipment, the Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Honda CB350 comparison clearly tilts toward Honda if you prefer modern safety and connectivity features.
ALSO READ: Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Bullet 350 Comparison 2026, Price, Strong Mileage, Features, Buyer Guide
Price Comparison
The Classic 350 starts at approximately Rs 1.82 lakh ex showroom, depending on the variant.
The CB350 Hness starts at around Rs 1.92 lakh ex showroom.
Honda is slightly more expensive, but it justifies the premium with additional features and technology. In the Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Honda CB350 price discussion, buyers must decide whether they value heritage more or extra features.
Pros & Cons of Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Honda CB350
Royal Enfield Classic 350
Pros
- Iconic retro design
- Strong brand recall and resale value
- Improved refinement over previous models
- Wide service network across India
Cons
- Heavier than competitor
- Fewer advanced features
- Smaller fuel tank
Honda CB350 Hness
Pros
- Higher torque output
- Lighter weight
- More safety and tech features
- Larger fuel tank
Cons
- Slightly higher price
- Limited BigWing dealership availability in smaller towns
Expert Opinion
If you ride with your heart, the Classic 350 feels special. The design, stance, and signature thump create an emotional connect that very few bikes can replicate.
However, if you ride with logic and practicality in mind, the CB350 Hness offers better torque delivery, more features, and a lighter riding experience. In the final Royal Enfield Classic 350 vs Honda CB350 verdict, your decision should depend on whether you prioritize legacy or technology.
Which Bike is Right for You?
Choose Classic 350 if:
- You want a timeless retro design
- You value brand heritage and resale
- You prefer a heavy and planted feel
Choose CB350 Hness if:
- You want modern safety features
- You prefer smoother city performance
- You want a bigger fuel tank for long rides
Conclusion
Both motorcycles are strong contenders in the 350cc retro category. The Classic 350 represents tradition, legacy, and emotional appeal. The CB350 Hness represents modern engineering, smoother performance, and better equipment levels.
The smartest move is to take a proper test ride of both. Numbers matter, but real world feel matters more.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Which bike has better torque?
A: Honda CB350 Hness produces 30 Nm, which is higher than the Classic 350.
Q2. Honda CB350 Hness produces 30 Nm, which is higher than the Classic 350.
A: The Classic 350 is heavier at 195 kg compared to the CB350 Hness at 181 kg.
Q3. Do both bikes offer dual channel ABS?
A: Yes, both motorcycles come with dual channel ABS as standard.
Q4. Which one is better for long rides?
A: CB350 Hness has a larger fuel tank, but both are comfortable cruisers.
Q5. Which bike has better resale value?
A: Traditionally, Royal Enfield models enjoy strong resale value in India.
